Monday, October 25, 2010

Pop Dr(((O)))jes: Episode 69

Shockingly great record from the boys that used to be known as The Go. Detroit mainstays who once had the infamous Jack White in their ranks, and also had their still-unreleased second LP, Free Electricity, denied by Sub Pop, prompting the band to leave the record shelved to this day, never to look back. They spent the next few years cultivating a cult audience, issuing LPs and seven inches on small labels run by friends and fans. With this recent release, they've changed their name to Conspiracy Of Owls and have quietly dropped one of 2010's great rock records. With lead singer and guitarist Bobby Harlow once again helming production, the band have delved even further into the lite-psych and 70s AM pop that was only dabbled in with their last LP, 2007's Howl On The Haunted Beat You Ride. Harlow and co. have managed to peel back several decades of easy-going rock, from Brian Wilson-esque odes to childhood to McDonald and Giles prog-folk, and twist it up into their own unique take, one that can be instantly recognized by long-time fans as The Go (errr, Conspiracy Of Owls). Fans of any permutation of what is known simply as rock and roll will have a hard time not finding something great on this record. An initial run of 500 has sold out, including a special edition glow-in-the-dark cover, though Burger Records has graciously pressed another 200. Absolute highest recommendation is bestowed upon this amazing record. Seek out immediately.